NOOK owners will get some significant new features and abilities thanks to the latest software update. Version 1.3 improves the performance of the device including faster e-book opening and page turns, but significant enhancements include new in-store capabilities, improved Wi-Fi functionality, a beta web browser and the ability to access games. These new abilities can be found through additional buttons added to NOOK’s home screen. To access the buttons users need only to swipe their finger.

Users will also now be able to see when they are connected to a Barnes & Noble Wi-Fi store network by viewing the Store button which will be updated with a new “In-Store” banner. When the NOOK is no longer connected to the store’s network the “In-Store” banner will be removed. A new in-store feature that comes with the NOOK’s latest update is called Read In Store, which is in beta. Read In Store will allow NOOK owners to read a selection of complete e-books for up to an hour a day.

Speaking of connecting up your NOOK, Wi-Fi settings are now easier to access thanks to a new Wi-Fi button. Even more Wi-Fi networks are supported now that NOOK has the ability to access networks which require credentials or confirmation through a web browser. That’s because the NOOK now has a web browser. The new web browser, which is in beta and available as a new button, does not currently support Flash or JAVA, but you will still be able to access many popular sites.

Other feature updates include a new Games button which turns your NOOK into a portable game device. Current games available include Chess and Sodoku. A new Audio button is also available, but nothing has been updated with the device’s audio player. It’s now just easier to access.

The timing of this update couldn’t be better now that Best Buy offers the NOOK in addition to Barnes & Nobles bookstores. That means more consumers will be able to get their hands on a NOOK to try it out. The hands-on demonstrations will be even more powerful now that the NOOK is capable of browsing websites and playing games. With the addition of a browser you’ll probably see more NOOKs at your local Starbucks since users will now be able to access the Wi-Fi network there.

I expect each update to the NOOK will continue to be significant as Barnes & Noble tries to go head-to-head with Amazon’s Kindle. In some respects I believe the NOOK is more impressive to look at with its full color home screen area, but where the rubber meets the road is in functionality. I think the jury is still out on which one is better when it comes to that, but if you are a regular Barnes & Noble customer it’s clear the NOOK makes an attractive e-reader for you to take with you on your visits to the bookstore.